Beyond Awards: Nominations

Each year, GRAR recognizes an individual who exemplifies the title of REALTOR® of the Year. The Realtor® of the Year Award is the highest honor bestowed by GRAR to recognize an exceptional individual who exemplifies the values and principles of the real estate profession. This award celebrates a REALTOR® who demonstrates outstanding performance in their business and shows a deep commitment to the community, the industry, and the Association.

The REALTOR® of the Year Award winner will also be recognized at the NYSAR meetings in February 2027.

This annual award honors the legacy of Howard W Coles, a local civil rights leader and REALTOR®, who dedicated his life to advancing social justice. Coles was the publisher of Rochester’s longest running black-owned newspaper, the Frederick Douglass Voice, and was Rochester’s first black radio announcer. He used these platforms to advocate for better housing, education, and employment opportunities for African Americans in Rochester. As a real estate agent, he fought the discrimination of black homebuyers and worked to improve housing conditions in the city.

The Breaking Barriers Award recognizes an individual who has broken barriers and advocated for more equitable opportunities in the real estate industry by challenging systemic barriers and advocating for underrepresented communities.

Francis “Fran” Henty was a distinguished REALTOR® in the Rochester area, known for his significant contributions to the real estate community. In 1980, he became a member of GRAR, operating his office on Maple Street in Dansville, NY. Fran was known for giving of himself for the betterment of individuals in our community.

The Community Service Award was established in 1997, and is awarded each year to honor the spirit of Francis Henty. This award recognizes an individual who is willing to ‘go that extra mile’ in their real estate career and personal life. The individual chosen for this award demonstrates a strong commitment to improving the welfare of others, and has made significant contributions to enhancing the quality of life in their community through service, volunteerism, and leadership.

The Legacy Real Estate Award honors exceptional contributions to the real estate industry. This award recognizes an individual who has made a significant and lasting impact through innovation, mentorship, and dedication, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and influence future generations.

The Legacy Award recognizes that a mentor’s legacy is not just about the immediate guidance they provide, but the lasting effect it has on the development of those to whom they provide guidance and inspiration. By mentoring others, the winner of this award has contributed to the growth and shaping of future leaders in real estate.

The Rising Star Award celebrates a REALTOR® who has made a notable impact on the industry at the beginning of their career. This award recognizes a GRAR member who exhibits exceptional promise, innovation, and leadership within their first five years of membership.